Townhome Fire Victim's Condition Upgraded

A 73-year-old North Bethesda man who suffered severe burns after trying to put out a fire in his townhouse has improved, officials say.

Montgomery County Fire and Rescue units were called to 10921 Brewer House Road Friday morning. The 911 call was made by a neighbor who said she was awakened by the homeowner knocking on her door.

Firefighters arrived to find flames coming from several windows in an end of the row, two-story townhouse.

The resident suffered significant second- and third-degree burns over about 30 percent of his body. He said a smoke alarm awoke him and he tried to put out the fire, but could not.

The homeowner was taken to a local burn center with critical injuries. On Monday, county fire department spokesman Pete Piringer said the victim’s condition had improved to serious.

Investigators say the fire was accidental; it was likely caused by an electrical failure or malfunction in a floor outlet.

Damage is estimated at $350,000 to the structure and $100,000 to the contents of the home. Two cats are also unaccounted for following the fire.

Firefighters returned to the neighborhood Friday afternoon to hand out safety information and check smoke alarms to ensure they are working.

»Photo by Bev Jensen via Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services

READ ALSO:

• Two MoCo Companies Make Forbes’ Most Promising List
• 29 Job Openings Near Bethesda: Nature Conservancy, Bank of America, Alley Cat Allies and More
• ICYMI Restaurant Inspections: Chipotle, Morton’s Steak House, Bobby’s Burger Palace, Tako Grill + Red Bandana Bakery